Students enrolled in the first batch of the four-year undergraduate programme at Calcutta University who choose to leave the course after completing three years will receive a degree titled “Graduate with Major.” The decision was confirmed by vice-chancellor Ashutosh Ghosh.

This designation will apply to students admitted in 2023 who complete six semesters but decide not to continue into the fourth year of the programme.

The announcement resolves weeks of uncertainty among students and teachers regarding the qualification that would be granted to those choosing to exit after the third year. Earlier discussions within the university had considered the possibility of awarding a “Graduate with Honours” title, similar to the format followed by Delhi University.

However, university officials later clarified that the University Grants Commission (UGC) recommends the use of the term “Graduate with Major” for students completing six semesters without continuing to the fourth year. After reviewing the guidelines and consulting experts, the university decided to adopt the terminology suggested by the UGC.

The clarification became necessary after many teachers reported difficulty answering students’ questions about the degree they would receive if they did not pursue the final year. Faculty members had been urging the administration to address the confusion.

Experts consulted by the university also supported the “Graduate with Major” designation. Siuli Sarkar, principal of Lady Brabourne College and a member of the university syndicate, said institutions are now awaiting an official circular confirming the decision.

Under the four-year undergraduate structure, the subject previously known as an honours subject is now referred to as a major. According to UGC guidelines, the honours title can only be awarded after completion of the fourth year, which includes a research component.

Autonomous colleges affiliated with the university are expected to follow the same terminology. For instance, St Xavier’s College indicated it will adopt whatever designation the university finalizes, specifying the major subject such as English, Physics, or Sociology.

Some colleges, including Scottish Church College, said they would wait for the official university circular before implementing the change.

Background: NEP Framework

In June 2023, Calcutta University introduced admission rules and course structures for its four-year undergraduate programmes under the framework of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The new system allows multiple exit options after the second, fourth, and sixth semesters. Previously, undergraduate programmes typically lasted three years without such flexible exit points.

Under these regulations, students who complete six semesters with a cumulative grade point average equivalent to at least 75% may continue into the seventh and eighth semesters to pursue an honours with research degree.

Students exiting after the second semester receive a certificate, while those leaving after the fourth semester are awarded a diploma. The recent clarification specifically addresses students who complete six semesters but decide not to pursue the fourth year.

University officials have stated that Calcutta University will continue to follow the guidelines issued by the UGC while implementing the new undergraduate structure.